30 Best Things to Do in Buenos Aires for First-Time Visitors
Buenos Aires is one of the most captivating cities in Argentina, where European elegance meets Latin American spirit. This vibrant metropolis is a blend of grand architecture, lush parks, and lively barrios filled with tango rhythms. Nestled along the Rio de la Plata, Buenos Aires is known for its rich cultural heritage, eclectic neighborhoods, and excellent cuisine. With its temperate climate, the city is perfect for exploring year-round. Enjoy the best things to do in Buenos Aires, from visiting historic landmarks to enjoying local food markets and vibrant street art scenes.
Chapters
- Things to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina
- 1. Take a city tour (by bike or on foot!)
- 2. Ride the sightseeing bus
- 3. Explore San Telmo, the city’s oldest neighborhood
- 4. Check out Feria de San Telmo on a Sunday
- 5. Walk around the streets of La Boca
- 6. See the Pink House at Plaza de Mayo
- 7. People-watch at Plaza del Congreso
- 8. Find Evita’s resting place at Recoleta Cemetery
- 9. Explore a library built in an old theatre
- 10. Explore the old book shops of San Telmo
- 11. Stroll on the dockside at Puerto Madero
- 12. Learn tango at a local milonga night! (Or take lessons)
- 13. Go to an Argentine football match
- 14. Take the stadium tour of La Bombonera
- 15. Take a street art and graffiti tour in Palermo
- 16. See amazing artworks at Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
- 18. Eat at an Argentine steakhouse
- 19. Experience a traditional asado meal at Fogón
- 20. Have an incredible burger at El Banco Rojo
- 21. Sip a coffee at historic Café Tortoni
- 22. Try the city’s best coffee at Öss Kaffe
- 23. Discover the city’s wine culture
- 24. Try the craft beer scene in Palermo
- 25. Eat empanadas from a local bakery
- 26. Snack on sweet alfajores
- 27. Visit a historic Buenos Aires pizzeria
- 28. Go to a tango show
- 29. See the amazing percussion show of La Bomba de Tiempo
- 30. Discover Buenos Aires nightlife on a pub crawl
- 31. Go for a night out in Palermo
- 32. Cruise on the Tigre Delta
- 33. Take a ferry across the river to Uruguay
Things to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina
In Buenos Aires, Argentina, your morning could start with a stroll through wide avenues lined with European-style architecture, followed by sipping a coffee at a charming café in Palermo. By afternoon, you might find yourself exploring vibrant street art in La Boca or enjoying a leisurely walk through the lush greenery of the city’s parks. Some of the highlights of the city include discovering its historic landmarks, savoring local flavors, and immersing yourself in the tango cultur
1. Take a city tour (by bike or on foot!)
Exploring Buenos Aires on a guided city tour, whether on foot or by bike, is one of the best ways to get to know the city when you first arrive. Buenos Aires offers a variety of tours that showcase its fascinating landmarks and charming neighborhoods.
On our first day, we opted for a walking tour that took us through the heart of the city. It was both engaging and informative, perfect for getting a feel of the city’s history and culture. While many walking tours are available, we recommend booking in advance to ensure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons.
For those looking to see more in less time, a bike tour is an excellent alternative. It’s not only an eco-friendly option but also a fun and active way to experience the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires. Depending on your preferences, you can explore the city’s southern areas in the morning or venture to the north in the afternoon. Feeling ambitious? Combine both circuits into a full-day adventure on two wheels!
2. Ride the sightseeing bus
For a more relaxed way to explore Buenos Aires, consider hopping on the city’s sightseeing bus. On one of our trips, we found this service to be a convenient and enjoyable way to visit some of the key attractions we hadn’t seen before.
If you’re planning to stay in Buenos Aires for a few days, I recommend getting the 48-hour or 72-hour pass instead of the 24-hour option. The price difference is minimal, and it allows you more time to explore the city at your own pace.
The bus covers an extensive route, giving you the chance to see many parts of Buenos Aires. If you ride without getting off, it will take a couple of hours to complete the loop. You can sit on the top deck, enjoying panoramic views while listening to the informative audio guide.
3. Explore San Telmo, the city’s oldest neighborhood
San Telmo is one of the most charming and historic neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. It’s a place we often choose to stay when we visit the city, thanks to its old-world atmosphere filled with colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, bustling markets, and local eateries. Unlike the more polished areas like Recoleta or Palermo, San Telmo has a rugged, authentic charm that makes it feel like the true heart of Buenos Aires.
There’s so much to explore in San Telmo. One unique experience is visiting El Zanjón de Granados, where you can venture below the city and discover a maze of underground tunnels and waterways beneath an ancient mansion. We took a one-hour guided tour here, which can be booked online.
In the center of the neighborhood, you’ll find the iconic Mercado San Telmo. It’s a must-visit for delicious street food and quirky shops. As you stroll the streets, keep an eye out for Casa Minima, the narrowest building in the city, and the statue of Mafalda, a beloved Argentine cartoon character, though you might need to wait in line for a photo!
During our stay, we opted for a private room at Viajero Hostel in San Telmo, and they offer an excellent free walking tour of the area.
If you’re curious to learn more, be sure to check out our complete guide to San Telmo and for recommendations on accommodations across Buenos Aires.
4. Check out Feria de San Telmo on a Sunday
Every Sunday, the streets of San Telmo come alive with the vibrant Feria de San Telmo, one of the largest open-air markets in Buenos Aires. Spanning the length of Calle Defensa and spreading into the surrounding side streets, this market is a treasure trove of local crafts, handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and antiques.
The Feria isn’t just about shopping, it’s a full cultural experience. As you wander through the market, you’ll find sizzling BBQ street food, and be treated to live performances by tango dancers and musicians, adding to the festive atmosphere.
If you’re in Buenos Aires on a Sunday, the Feria is a must-visit. Just be mindful of your belongings, as the bustling crowds can attract pickpockets.
5. Walk around the streets of La Boca
La Boca is a must-see district, whether you’re a football fan or not. It’s the most colorful neighborhood in Buenos Aires, famous for its brightly painted buildings, which were part of an artistic transformation that began in the 1950s.
La Boca is steeped in a rich history of migration and creativity. In the 19th century, this neighborhood became home to waves of European immigrants, particularly from Genoa, Italy, who arrived in Buenos Aires in the 1830s. Today, the main street, El Caminito, is an open-air museum where you can wander among local artists, street performers, bustling market stalls, and restaurants calling you in for a taste of the local cuisine. While some of the eateries may charge a bit extra due to the area’s popularity with tourists, the experience is well worth it for the vibrant atmosphere.
La Boca is a fantastic place to explore on foot at your own pace. However, if you’d prefer a more structured experience, you can book a guided walking tour with a local expert to learn more about the history and culture of this vibrant neighborhood.
6. See the Pink House at Plaza de Mayo
Buenos Aires is a city rich in political history, and no landmark represents this better than Casa Rosada, the ‘Pink House.’ As the executive mansion of Argentina’s president, it stands proudly in Plaza de Mayo, a historic square that marks the foundation of Buenos Aires.
The sight of Argentina’s blue-and-white flag fluttering above the grand pink facade is one of the most iconic images of the city. Casa Rosada has been the backdrop for many significant political events. Perhaps one of the most dramatic moments occurred during the December 2001 crisis, when mass protests broke out against the government. The then-president, Fernando de la Rúa, famously fled the building by helicopter from its rooftop.
7. People-watch at Plaza del Congreso
Plaza del Congreso is another magnificent square in Buenos Aires, featuring lush gardens, symbolic statues, and flowing fountains. At the western end of the plaza, you’ll find the grand Palacio del Congreso, one of the most important government buildings in the city.
The green-domed palace, built in 1906, was modeled after the Capitol Building in Washington, DC. Four days a week, you can take free guided tours that explore both chambers of government. You’ll also have the chance to visit the historic ‘pink room,’ where women met to discuss policies until 1951, the year women were first allowed to run for public office.
On sunny days, Plaza del Congreso is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Bring a picnic, relax in the greenery, and enjoy some people-watching in this impressive setting.
8. Find Evita’s resting place at Recoleta Cemetery
Including a cemetery in a list of the coolest things to do in Buenos Aires might seem unusual, but La Recoleta Cemetery is far from an ordinary graveyard. This sprawling labyrinth of ornate tombs and crypts is the final resting place of many notable Argentinian figures.
The most famous of these is undoubtedly Eva Perón, also known as Evita. You can easily find her resting place in the Duarte family crypt, often marked by a crowd of visitors paying their respects. Among the elaborate tombs, you’ll also find the graves of former presidents, generals, and influential members of Argentine high society, all buried alongside their families.
Recoleta Cemetery has become a significant tourist attraction in its own right. Open to the public daily from 9am to 5pm, maps are available at the entrance to help guide your exploration.
9. Explore a library built in an old theatre
Tucked away on Avenida Santa Fe, amidst the bustling shopping scene of downtown Buenos Aires, lies one of the city’s most unique attractions. El Ateneo Grand Splendid is a grand library housed in a beautifully restored century-old theatre. Some even say it could be the most beautiful bookstore in the world.
The original red curtains, balconies, and theatre stalls remain, but now they hold endless shelves of books rather than theatre seats. It’s a brilliant example of how historic spaces can be creatively repurposed, making it a must-see for lovers of art, architecture, and literature. Even if you’re not a book lover, the sheer beauty of this building makes it well worth a visit.
10. Explore the old book shops of San Telmo
Buenos Aires is a paradise for literature lovers. Over the years, this romantic city has been home to many of Argentina’s most beloved writers and poets. Wandering through the cobblestone streets of San Telmo, you’ll discover a variety of charming bookstores, offering everything from antique books to modern-day literary gems.
Many of these shops have sections dedicated to second-hand English books. At Libreria La Calesita, located a few blocks north of San Telmo’s heart (just a few doors away from the famous Café Tortoni), I stumbled upon a copy of Bruce Chatwin’s classic travel book, In Patagonia.
If you’re searching for more English titles, Walrus Books is the go-to shop in San Telmo. For further recommendations, check out the Buenos Aires Herald, which highlights the best bookstores across the city. And if you’re looking for some reading inspiration before your trip, take a look at our list of books about Argentina to fuel your wanderlust, you might even find some of them in the San Telmo bookshops.
11. Stroll on the dockside at Puerto Madero
The historic docks of Buenos Aires at Puerto Madero have been revitalized into a vibrant and upscale district, drawing much of the city’s new wealth. The waterfront is now home to trendy cafés, stylish bars, and some of the most luxurious hotels in the city.
Puerto Madero is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the dockside. If you’re in the mood for a drink, stop by Peñón del Águila, a unique floating bar on the water that serves craft beers and stays open late into the night.
Adjacent to Puerto Madero is Costanera Sur, a vast ecological reserve located along the river. It’s the largest green space in Buenos Aires, rich in biodiversity. Extend your walk here for a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
12. Learn tango at a local milonga night! (Or take lessons)
Tango is woven into the cultural fabric of Buenos Aires and is one of Argentina’s most iconic traditions. To truly experience the city’s soul, you have to try your hand at this famous dance.
One of the most exciting ways to learn is by attending a local milonga night. These are lively gatherings where locals come together for informal tango lessons, followed by a night of dancing and drinks. We attended a Sunday milonga night at La Viruta Tango Club in Palermo, and it remains one of the most unforgettable highlights of our time in Buenos Aires.
Tango lessons usually start around 8:30pm, with the hall divided into three sections for advanced, intermediate, and beginners. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it easy for anyone to join in. Lessons last for an hour or two, and then you’re free to dance until 5am if you like.
If you want to take your tango skills further, Buenos Aires has countless dance schools offering classes for all levels. You can even book a private tango lesson to learn the basics, with flexible cancellation options available through platforms like GetYourGuide. Who knows, you might become so passionate about tango that, like Lucie, a French traveler we met during our first visit, you end up staying in Buenos Aires for months just to master the dance!
13. Go to an Argentine football match
No country in the world matches Argentina’s passion for football. Legends like Alfredo Di Stéfano, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi are national icons. Attending a football match in Argentina is an unforgettable experience, though it can sometimes be intense due to the passionate fans.
While the rivalry between Boca Juniors and River Plate has made headlines worldwide, football in Buenos Aires is generally safe and enjoyable for visitors. We attended a cup match between Racing Club and Temperley and found ourselves seated behind the goal with the “ultras,” the most passionate fans. Despite the reputation, the atmosphere was welcoming, and we had a great time laughing and cheering with the locals.
A football match in Argentina is thrilling, but not for the faint-hearted. When the home team scores, the crowd surges forward, and the stadium erupts in deafening noise. It’s all part of the experience and adds to the excitement, as long as you’re ready for it!
Tickets for Boca Juniors and River Plate matches can be hard to find and expensive, often requiring purchase through tour companies that charge high commissions. If you want a more accessible option, consider watching a game at Racing Club or other local teams. We bought tickets directly at the stadium, but they can also be found online or at club shops.
For those who prefer a hassle-free experience, you can book a football match experience with a local guide, ensuring you’re well looked after and safe during the game.
Tip: Be sure to check local advice on safety and transportation before attending a match.
14. Take the stadium tour of La Bombonera
If attending a live football match feels a bit too intense, another great way to dive into Buenos Aires’ football culture is by taking a tour of La Bombonera, the iconic home of Boca Juniors. Located in the lively La Boca district, the stadium’s striking blue and yellow colors perfectly match the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding streets.
Boca Juniors has been the home of some of the world’s greatest football legends, including Maradona, Batistuta, Riquelme, Caniggia, and Tevez.
The stadium’s museum, Museo de la Pasión Boquense, is open daily from 10am to 6pm (except on match days). Here, through interactive exhibits and memorabilia, you can explore more than a century of Boca Juniors’ history. Guided tours of the stadium are available throughout the day, check the museum’s website for up-to-date details.
You can easily reach La Boca from downtown using the local bus services 29 and 64, or the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.
15. Take a street art and graffiti tour in Palermo
The leafy neighborhood of Palermo is a stark contrast to the vibrant chaos of La Boca. With its wide avenues and lush green parks, Palermo offers a more relaxed atmosphere during the day, but by night it becomes the epicenter of Buenos Aires’ nightlife.
Palermo is also a cultural hotspot, celebrated for its colorful street art and creative graffiti. We joined a Palermo street art and graffiti tour to dive deeper into the local art scene, and it was fantastic value, costing just a few dollars. A local student guide entertained us with captivating stories behind the murals and graffiti tags.
The tour runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, starting at 3pm. Lasting around two hours, it’s the perfect length, shorter than many walking tours, giving you plenty of time afterward to soak in the early evening vibes of the neighborhood. Plus, Palermo is a great place to grab a bite to eat, as we’ll explore later in this guide.
16. See amazing artworks at Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
For a more traditional art experience, head to the Recoleta neighborhood and spend a few hours exploring the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. Housed in a beautiful 19th-century building that was once a drainage pumping station, the museum is home to a vast collection of magnificent paintings by both local and international artists.
One highlight to look out for is the dramatic depictions of the 19th-century Argentine–Paraguay wars by Cándido López, an artist who also fought in the conflict. His detailed battlefield scenes bring history to life, and you can see more of his works in the National History Museum, located in a park between San Telmo and La Boca.
18. Eat at an Argentine steakhouse
Argentina is renowned worldwide for its steak, and Buenos Aires is the perfect place to experience this culinary delight. While we’ve sampled steakhouses in cities like New York, London, Melbourne, and Paris, nothing compares to the flavors you’ll find in Buenos Aires.
With countless steakhouses across the city, everyone has their own opinion on which one is the best. We’ve tried many during our visits, and you can check out our guide on where to find the best steak in Buenos Aires. A general tip: if you see a steakhouse full of locals rather than tourists, it’s usually a good sign. You’ll find many great spots in the old San Telmo neighborhood, such as La Brigada and El Desnivel. Our personal favorite for quality meat, though, is La Carnicería in Palermo.
For a truly top-tier experience, Don Julio in Palermo is often regarded as the crown jewel of Buenos Aires steakhouses. While it’s not cheap, and reservations are needed months in advance (or you’ll have to queue for hours), the wait is sweetened with complimentary champagne. Don Julio consistently ranks among the top restaurants in South America and is well worth the effort.
19. Experience a traditional asado meal at Fogón
If you want to savor Argentine steak and other BBQ cuts while immersing yourself in one of the country’s most cherished traditions, an asado night in Buenos Aires is a must.
Asado is Argentina’s national dish, featuring various cuts of meat grilled slowly over several hours on a parrilla. It’s more than just a meal, it’s a social event that brings friends and family together for an unforgettable experience.
We opted for the 9-course Fogón Asado experience, and it was an incredible evening. It’s not just a meal; it’s a show and a social gathering, making it an immersive cultural experience.
For a more budget-friendly way to enjoy Argentina’s best meats, consider attending an asado night at a local hostel. One of our favorites was the Sunday night asado at Rayuela Hostel (guests only), which was a highlight of our week during our first visit to Buenos Aires.
Hosted by the knowledgeable owner, Christian, Rayuela’s asado night includes a commentary on each dish served. The menu changes weekly but typically features steaks, chorizo, beef ribs, blood sausage, sweetbreads, and potatoes cooked in meat drippings. Paired with Argentine red wine, it’s the perfect way to meet fellow travelers and share stories.
We also joined the asado night at Viajero Hostel during our stay. While it’s a larger hostel and the atmosphere is a bit less intimate, it’s just as fun. The evening ended with a night out with the new friends we made, creating memories that lasted long after our trip.
20. Have an incredible burger at El Banco Rojo
Every time we return to Buenos Aires, it’s become a tradition to head straight for a burger and beer at El Banco Rojo in San Telmo. I’m not exaggerating when I say this is my favorite burger joint in the world.
You’ll be amazed at how affordable the burgers are at this trendy spot in the heart of the neighborhood. We spent less than ten dollars on burgers, fries, and beers for two people. Prepare yourself for some seriously juicy, greasy, and delicious burgers!
Out the back, there’s a cozy little beer garden perfect for relaxing. And if you’re in San Telmo for an evening of beers, El Banco Rojo offers a fun atmosphere with music that sets the vibe just right.
21. Sip a coffee at historic Café Tortoni
Café Tortoni is the oldest coffeehouse in Buenos Aires, steeped in history and charm. Despite its Italian-sounding name, the café was founded by a French immigrant in 1858, who named it after the famous high-society café on Boulevard des Italiens in Paris.
Over the years, Café Tortoni has welcomed an impressive list of guests, including Albert Einstein, the King of Spain, and Hillary Clinton, alongside many renowned artists, journalists, and tango stars.
Stepping inside, you’ll immediately understand its appeal to dignitaries and creatives alike. The interior is adorned with marble tables, elegant wooden paneling, grand chandeliers, and a Tiffany glass ceiling. The café’s cellar regularly hosts cultural events such as poetry readings and Saturday night tango performances, making it a true cultural hub.
22. Try the city’s best coffee at Öss Kaffe
If you consider yourself a coffee enthusiast, Buenos Aires won’t disappoint. The city offers a diverse range of coffeehouses, from historic spots like Café Tortoni to modern, artisan cafés.
A local walking tour guide tipped us off about Öss Kaffe in Recoleta, which is said to serve the best coffee in Buenos Aires. Although Öss Kaffe is a small chain, this particular location is centrally located and was the easiest for us to reach.
The coffee here is exceptional. Along with classic blends, Öss Kaffe offers some creative concoctions. I tried the gin and honey coffee on the guide’s recommendation, and it was a delightful surprise. If you’re looking for something a bit more breakfast-like, try the coffee with orange juice, and don’t miss out on their homemade brownies or cakes to complement your drink.
23. Discover the city’s wine culture
If anything rivals Argentina’s love for steak, it’s wine. As the world’s top producer of Malbec, Argentina is known for offering some of the finest red wine you’ll ever taste. No trip to this incredible country would be complete without sampling its exceptional wine.
Buenos Aires is dotted with wine bars and shops where you can enjoy tastings, particularly in the neighborhoods of Palermo, Recoleta, and San Telmo. We stopped by La Uvateca in San Telmo and picked up a few bottles to bring home.
For a more immersive experience, consider taking a wine tour and tasting session in the city. One excellent option is an introduction to Buenos Aires’ wine culture, which takes you to a family-run winery in San Telmo. There, you’ll enjoy Argentine wine paired with local food for the perfect tasting experience.
24. Try the craft beer scene in Palermo
While Argentina is more famous for its wine, Buenos Aires also boasts a vibrant craft beer scene, and Palermo is at the heart of it. This neighborhood is filled with independent craft beer bars tucked away along its lively streets.
Whenever we head out for drinks in Palermo, we usually start at Choppería, a popular craft beer bar located at the busy intersection of Gurruchaga and El Salvador. From there, we often visit other favorites like 1516 Cerveceria, Baum, and Desarmadero, all offering a fantastic selection of local brews.
For a deeper dive into the craft beer culture, you can take a guided craft beer tour of Palermo. Local guides will lead you to some of the neighborhood’s hidden gems, offering tastings along the way, as well as introducing you to local street food.
25. Eat empanadas from a local bakery
Empanadas have been a staple of our diet while traveling through South America, and Argentina takes them to another level. These delicious pastry snacks come with a variety of savory fillings, and they are more popular here than anywhere else. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, empanadas are perfect anytime. Personally, we love having one for breakfast!
You’ll find fresh empanadas in bakeries all across Buenos Aires, made daily. One of the best spots we’ve discovered is Panadería y Confitería La Mariposa, a charming family-run bakery tucked away in the back streets of San Telmo.
26. Snack on sweet alfajores
If you have a sweet tooth or want to try a traditional Argentine dessert, you can’t leave Buenos Aires without indulging in alfajores. These delightful cake-biscuits are filled with dulce de leche, a creamy caramel made from milk, and often dusted with shredded coconut or covered in chocolate.
During our last days in Buenos Aires, we embarked on a taste test, sampling alfajores from different shops around the city. Honestly, you can’t go wrong no matter where you buy them, but we especially loved the souvenir alfajores from La Casa del Dulce de Leche and Dulce De Leche & Co, both of which have multiple locations across the city. Another fantastic spot in San Telmo is La Vaca Lechera.
If you’re in Mercado San Telmo, don’t miss the chance to try the giant alfajores at one of the central stalls. We paired one with coffee while exploring the neighborhood. Although they’re not cheap, they’re delicious, and one is easily big enough to share between two people.
27. Visit a historic Buenos Aires pizzeria
It might come as a surprise, but Buenos Aires is home to more pizzerias than any other city in the world. The strong Italian influence, dating back to the arrival of workers from Genoa in La Boca during the 19th century, has shaped a thriving pizza culture, with nearly as many pizzerias as steakhouses.
You’ll find a variety of pizza styles and sizes across the city. If you’re unsure where to start, our guide to pizza in Buenos Aires will help you navigate the options and find the best spots to indulge.
For those staying around San Telmo, Pirilo is a must-try. This historic pizzeria has been serving up slices for decades and was first introduced to us by a local walking tour guide. Now, it’s our go-to spot whenever we crave pizza in Buenos Aires.
Pirilo is a small takeaway joint with a hole-in-the-wall vibe that seems to open at random times. In the evening, you’ll often find locals lining up outside, which is a testament to how delicious and affordable the pizza is.
28. Go to a tango show
A tango night in Buenos Aires is an unforgettable experience that brings the city’s passion and culture to life. If you’re in the city, make sure to set aside time to catch a show.
There are many tango shows to choose from, each offering a unique atmosphere. We attended the show at El Querandi, which is perfect for those wanting an introduction to the history of tango. The 90-minute performance takes you through the evolution of tango in Buenos Aires, showcasing different styles and the stories behind them.
We made it a full night by opting for the three-course dinner package, which was well worth it. You can read our full review of the El Querandi tango show for more details.
If you don’t have time for a full show, there are other ways to enjoy tango performances in Buenos Aires. In some tourist areas like La Boca, you may stumble upon free tango performances in restaurants. Additionally, some venues host ticketed shows, such as Café Tortoni, which frequently holds tango shows in its basement check their website for upcoming events.
29. See the amazing percussion show of La Bomba de Tiempo
Looking to kick off your trip to Buenos Aires with a bang? If you’re eager to dive straight into the city’s vibrant music and party scene, there’s no better way to start than by experiencing the explosive energy of La Bomba de Tiempo.
La Bomba de Tiempo, meaning “the time bomb,” is a 17-piece percussion ensemble that blends Argentine folk, samba, and rhythms from Africa and Central America. Every Monday night, the Ciudad Cultural Konex fills with eager crowds ready to witness their freestyle, improvisational performance. The show kicks off at 8pm and lasts for a couple of hours, but the energy doesn’t stop there street parties often carry on well into the early morning hours.
Getting to the Konex center is easy from most of Buenos Aires’ popular neighborhoods. It’s located near the Carlos Gardel (yellow line) and Once (red line) subway stations. You can book tickets online or buy them at the venue on the night, with doors opening at 7pm. Be prepared for a bit of a queue, but don’t worry street vendors outside usually sell empanadas to keep you satisfied while you wait.
30. Discover Buenos Aires nightlife on a pub crawl
We’ve explored nightlife in many cities across South America, but few compare to the vibrant energy of Buenos Aires after dark. The city truly comes alive at night, and there’s no better way to experience it than by joining a pub crawl.
If you’re unsure where to go for a fun night out, an organized pub crawl is a great option. We’ve done this on our travels and have tried a couple in Buenos Aires, both were a blast. It’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers while getting an insider’s guide to the best bars and clubs in the city.
This pub crawl runs five nights a week, each night featuring a different meeting point and theme, ensuring a unique experience every time.
31. Go for a night out in Palermo
We’ve already mentioned that Palermo is the go-to neighborhood for the liveliest nightlife in Buenos Aires. No matter where we stay in the city, we usually end up here by the end of a night out.
In addition to the craft beer pubs and wine bars scattered among the many restaurants, Palermo is also home to some fantastic cocktail spots. One of our favorite nights was spent at Rey de Copas, a cocktail and wine bar housed in an old casa chorizo family home, which was recommended to us by the staff at Fogón Asado.
32. Cruise on the Tigre Delta
The Tigre Delta, located just about 25 kilometers from downtown Buenos Aires, is the third-largest river delta in the world. Its lush, subtropical environment feels like a world away from the city’s towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. We experienced this firsthand on a Tigre Delta boat tour.
While it’s possible to reach the Tigre Delta via public transport, it can be a bit tricky to navigate. We opted for an organized day trip, which made the journey hassle-free and gave us the added bonus of learning about the delta’s environment and history from an expert guide. Most tours, including ours, also offer plenty of time to explore the charming resort town of Tigre, known for its markets and amusement parks.
For more details about our experience and other ways to visit Tigre, check out our Tigre Delta boat tour review.
33. Take a ferry across the river to Uruguay
Just across the mouth of the River Plate, a 75-minute ferry ride separates Buenos Aires from Colonia del Sacramento, a charming port town in neighboring Uruguay. This short trip makes it easy to take a day trip from Buenos Aires and explore the picturesque town on the other side of the river.
Colonia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved Portuguese colonial architecture, cozy cafés, craft markets, sycamore-lined streets, and stunning riverside views. One of the highlights of our visit was joining the locals in applauding the sunset as it dipped below the horizon across the river, a beautiful tradition.
Several ferry services operate daily crossings, including Buquebus, Colonia Express, and SeaCat. Be sure to arrive at the terminal at least an hour before your departure to allow enough time to clear customs.
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- December 31, 2023
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